We put a lot of time and effort into putting a home on the market. It takes several hours to complete the photos, measuring and 3D virtual tours, but the time is time well spent! It is so important to make what is probably your biggest asset look as desirable as possible when it hits the market. I never understand why some homes are initially put onto the market with very few, or even no pictures. Your home will get most attention when it first hits the market, so why wouldn't you want it looking its best? When we list a home we walk around checking everything looks good before we start taking pictures. The 3D tours are awesome, they really showcase the property and people love viewing them, but they are also very detailed so everything needs to look tidy and de-cluttered. We normally end up moving some things around, but we also give the homeowner tips on what to do before we start taking pictures and video. When potential buyers view you property, the less they feel they need to do, the more it will appeal to them. Here are a selection of some of the tips we give.
De Clutter & Clean
A lot of people (including us) have too much stuff in their house. We usually suggest if there is room, move stuff into the garage (unless the garage is gorgeous) or rent a storage container. People want to view a de-cluttered house and the property will look much better with that 'staged' look. Clean off kitchen counters and take any magnets etc off of the fridge doors. Pack up your knicknacks, or if you really don't want or need it either donate or throw it (perfect opportunity for a purge). Ensure the property is cleaned throughout.
De Personalize
There is nothing wrong with having pictures of your loved ones all around your house, or your large collection of a particular art throughout the house, but you want people to visualize themselves living in the property, so de-personalize it a little.
A Fresh Coat Of Paint (Done Properly) Goes A Long Way
If any of the rooms need a fresh coat of paint, or a carpet needs stretching, then try and get it done.Ensure you use subtle, neutral colours (don't let buyers describe your home as the one with the bright orange bathroom!) We can look at your property and advise on what to do.
Major Work
Some people have said that they are thinking about getting their basement developed before putting their house on the market. Sometimes this isn't economically viable. In most cases you will not get the money back that you have spend on the basement development! We can certainly advise you on the best way to go.
Small Repairs
Patch, paint and repair any damage to the walls or doors. Finish any unfinished DIY projects. Replace any blown bulbs, replace any cracked tiles (if possible) and fix any leaky taps. If you are thinking about getting new bedspreads, now may be the time to do so.
Curb Appeal
Mow the lawn and keep the paths well cleared. Trim any over grown bushes, repair any broken fences and if possible (depending on the time of year) paint any faded paint.
Pets
We absolutely love our dogs, we have 2 gorgeous German Shepherds. Sometimes you can definately smell that pet smell inside a home. If this is the case ensure that your carpets have been cleaned and any poop cleaned up from the yard. Ensure any cat litter trays are cleaned out before each showing. Also arrange to have your dog taken out before each showing. If you have cats we always warn any Realtors showing not to let the cat out!
Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
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